Responses by Bluecadet.
Background: Our project for the Folger Shakespeare Library, an independent research library in Washington, DC, makes Shakespeare and his first folios accessible and engaging for a diverse audience, including school groups and visitors with little prior knowledge of Shakespeare’s work. By showcasing the difference between the 82 copies of first folios and the stories of their owners, the project invites a closer look at and a playful exploration of Shakespeare’s language, early printing and cultural legacy. It emphasizes inclusivity, connecting past and present in a welcoming, hands-on experience.
Design thinking: Our design of five separate but connective media experiences centered on making the stories approachable, interactive and visually engaging. By breaking down complex ideas into specific, right-sized experiences, we aimed to spark curiosity and play. Transforming the static pages of Shakespeare’s work into hands-on, dynamic interactions enabled visitors to connect more deeply with Shakespeare’s works and their historical significance.
Challenges: The Folger Shakespeare Library’s renovation meant that we didn’t have access to the first folios or the curatorial files while we were working on the project, so we had to understand these books through published documentation and writings—or searching through thousands and thousands of images of pages. It was also a challenge to ensure the interactive elements captured the depth and authenticity of the collection while being approachable for diverse audiences. Balancing scholarship with visitor engagement was a key focus of ours.
Favorite details: We’re particularly proud that each experience feels specific, purposeful, fun and engaging. The animations on the folios’ wings are simple enough to comprehended quickly yet rich in detail and movement, which keeps them engaging. Moments where visitors hear Shakespearean language—often considered dense—spark laughter and enjoyment, making these interactions deeply rewarding and accessible to all.
New lessons: We learned a lot about the first folios and the fascinating stories of their owners, such as Elizabeth, who inscribed her copy with “Her Book” three separate times, and Abby Pope, whose valuable collection may have led to her untimely death. Dr. Peggy O’Brien introduced us to the concept of “my inner dog is barking,” which means trusting when something doesn’t feel quite right. We also learned how incredible it is to collaborate with passionate clients like Peggy and Greg Prickman, who inspire great work while showing appreciation throughout the process.
Visual influences: Studio Joseph’s exhibition design and visual language heavily influenced our approach, helping create a cohesive, holistic experience. The colorful tooled-leather covers and marbled endpapers of the first folios inspired the color palette and visual design. For “Shake Up Your Shakespeare,” an installation where players act out Shakespearean lines with color-coded text that guides their performance, we looked to classic stage designs, using red curtains and subtle lighting animations to evoke a sense of theater while adding movement and focus to the experience.